Former MP handed new gig managing 'critical resource'

Hayden started in 2013 as a cadet journalist on the Fraser Coast Chronicle before relocating to Fairfax Media in Tasmania three years later. Hayden joined the Queensland Times in November 2017 as a political journalist with a focus on Ipswich City Council. He has covered two state and one federal budget.

FORMER Member for Ipswich David Hamill will today be named as the chairman of the southeast's water network.

He will be confirmed Seqwater chairman as part of a suite of board appointments to be announced by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

Mr Hamill, the Labor Member for Ipswich from 1983-2001, said he was excited to take up the role.

"Seqwater plays a critical role for southeast Queensland," he said.

"For me, personally, it's great to be asked to chair a utility that is actually based in Ipswich."

Mr Hamill said the first challenge was the importance of maintaining the critical resource.

He said Seqwater had a significant ability to affect and respond to drought and flooding.

"I look forward to getting in and meeting with other board members, getting to meet with the team," he said.

"I see I'll be on a steep learning curve."

Mr Hamill's appointment comes as the government prepares to announce new and returning appointments to various boards.

Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Anthony Lynham said the mix of new and existing appointees would continue to provide the strong leadership needed to keep organisations operating efficiently and effectively.

"Our Government-owned businesses do invaluable work and are critical to our economy," he said.

"Through keeping our assets in public hands we have been able to deliver directly for Queenslanders through our work in the areas of energy, water, transport and funds management."

Mr Hamill is chairman of Act for Kids, UQ College and a former Queensland chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Australia.

He was minister for transport and minister assisting the premier on economic and trade development, minister for education, and treasurer of Queensland during his time in parliament.

Last week, a Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Mr Hamill for his contribution to the community after politics.